Pipeline Inspection

The BIT method is:

We routinely scan between 200 and 750 meters (depending upon the pipe) in each direction from a single entry point and scan the full 360 degree circumference of the pipe. We scan pipes in the range 250mm to 600mm. The resolution generated by BIT’s proprietary PipeScanner (PS) enables us to identify corrosion pits down to a resolution of 1 x 1.5cms (based on 300mm pipes), as well as small and large areas of corrosion, and to differentiate between internal and external corrosion.

A BIT Inspection Unit consists of a specially equipped inspection vehicle, a two-man operational team and a PipeScanner. The PS is lowered into the water-filled pipe and floated through the inspection length of the pipe. The PS is weight-neutral in water, minimizing contact and pressure on pipe walls. The actual scanning takes place as the PS is pulled back to the insertion point, while transferring data to computers in the inspection vehicle. Most scans take no longer than 2 hours.

Scan results are analysed by BIT’s advanced computer analysis system (PARS) before our engineers produce a report for presentation to the client. With this data, we provide recommendations on the most suitable and cost-effective rehabilitation schemes. Clients receive a thorough and clear report that is easy to understand, with fact-based recommendations that enable a cost-saving and sustainable infrastructure asset management strategy. Data from our inspections can also be integrated in geographical information systems (GIS) or other asset management systems. As a result, the life-cycle cost of water distribution networks is reduced, as is the risk involved in not knowing the actual condition of crucial water infrastructure.

Operational Requirements

BIT services require: